In the life of a warrior, being able to anticipate what comes next is a vital skill. Life doesn’t unfold neatly in front of us; rather, it’s filled with twists and turns, unexpected obstacles, and opportunities. While some focus on trying to predict the distant future, true warriors know that success often comes from anticipating just the next few steps.
Anticipation is more than just guesswork—it’s about preparing for the future based on lessons from the past. William Vanderbloemen, in his book Be the Unicorn, touches on the importance of learning history to help anticipate the actions of others and the direction of society. He explains that by studying the patterns of the past, we can better predict what lies ahead, giving us the ability to make informed decisions. This wisdom, gained from history, provides us with the foresight to react with confidence and poise.
However, anticipation isn’t about needing to see the entire journey ahead. Vanderbloemen also emphasizes that it’s not about predicting the distant future, but focusing on what’s directly in front of you. In The Book of Psalms, we find this powerful verse: “Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). This scripture illustrates the idea of being guided in the dark by a light attached to our feet—not illuminating the entire road ahead, but just enough to see the next steps. This is how anticipation works: you don’t need to see miles ahead, just enough to keep moving forward.
The Power of Being Present
One of the keys to mastering anticipation is learning to be fully present in the moment. When we’re too focused on what might happen years from now, we lose sight of the immediate opportunities and challenges that lie right in front of us. A warrior knows that the present moment is where power resides. It’s in the now that we make decisions, build strength, and prepare for what’s next.
Being present allows us to stay alert and attuned to the subtle shifts in our environment. We become more aware of the small details that signal a change, and from there, we can better anticipate the outcomes. Whether it’s in our personal lives, relationships, or careers, being engaged in the present equips us to respond more effectively to whatever comes next.
Adaptability: A Warrior’s Greatest Strength
Anticipation is not about control; it’s about adaptability. Life will always be unpredictable, and no amount of planning can account for every twist and turn. The real power of anticipation lies in our ability to adapt and adjust course as new information arises. Warriors don’t cling rigidly to their plans—they are flexible and open to change, responding quickly to challenges while keeping their ultimate goal in mind.
When we learn to anticipate, we also learn the value of timing. Knowing when to act, when to wait, and when to pivot can be the difference between success and failure. This skill comes from understanding the flow of life, paying attention to the small signs, and trusting our instincts. With every challenge we face, we become better at reading the situation and predicting what comes next.
How to Strengthen Your Anticipation Skills
Here are a few practical ways to cultivate your anticipation skills:
Learn from Past ExperiencesReflect on your own history, as well as the history of those around you. What patterns can you identify? How can these lessons inform your next steps?
Stay Present and AttentiveAnticipation requires awareness. The more present you are in the current moment, the better you can pick up on the signals of what’s coming next. Stay alert, focused, and fully engaged in the now.
Practice FlexibilityAnticipation isn’t about predicting everything perfectly—it’s about being ready to adapt. Cultivate a mindset that allows you to adjust quickly to new information and unexpected changes.
Trust Your IntuitionOver time, anticipation becomes second nature. Trust your gut when you sense that a shift is coming, and prepare accordingly.
Conclusion: Seeing the Path Ahead
The warrior’s path is rarely a straight line. It’s filled with twists, obstacles, and uncertainty. But by honing the skill of anticipation, we can navigate this path with greater confidence. We don’t need to see every detail far into the future—just enough to take the next step. By learning from the past, staying present, and remaining adaptable, we equip ourselves with the ability to face whatever comes next with strength and grace.
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